Continuing investment at Strathmore Hospice

The continuing investment in equipment and training by Lippen Care to the Clova Ward and the Strathmore Hospice at the Whitehills Health and Community Care Centre was outlined in the chairperson’s annual report.

In a report to the annual general meeting, Moira Nicoll said the charity has also converted a room on the Isla Ward to provide care for palliative patients in the unit.

She said: “This has been fitted out to the same standard as the hospice and has been put to considerable use, and is greatly appreciated, by patients and their families.”

She also said the Clova Ward and hospice unit are under the new management of Dorothy Duncan.

Lippen Care manager Marion Hood reported 2014 had been another busy year for the “army of volunteers” who make up a key part of the Lippen Care team.

She added: “Our shop provides a visible presence for Lippen Care at the main reception area. The shop is staffed by a band of volunteers, all of whom are great ambassadors for the charity, and their efforts are greatly appreciated.”

The annual accounts showed donations in 2014 totalled £17,534 compared to £28,028 in 2013 and fund-raising totalled £19,155 (£24,460). Membership fees rose from £565 in 2013 to £615 and there was an increase in shop sales from £11,350 to £12,752. Some £15,511 was spent on equipment (£13,476) with wages and national insurance costing £20,137 (£20,435). Total payments were £53,685 (£50,486) giving a deficit of £3,629.